Giving local voice to global life

Scheduled to be launched today at Soft Box Studios Gallery on Alcazar Street in St Clair, the book will be supported by an exhibition of Dixon’s travel and relationship- inspired artwork. The book is the first major collaboration of this nature for authors Mohammed and Dixon, who have shared a two decade- long creative partnership.

Trinidadian-born Mohammed is a scholar and film-maker, currently serving as Professor of Gender and Cultural Studies at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad. Dixon was born in London, England, but has lived and worked in the Caribbean since 1985 – and is a globally- renowned artist.

Travels with a Husband follows the journeys of Mohammed and Dixon throughout some of the most intriguing corners of the world, including: Australia, India, Namibia, Northern Ireland, The Hague, and several Caribbean islands (including Jamaica), where they both have lived for various periods of time. Infused with a compelling blend of humour and poignancy and presented in an entertaining mix of writing styles, the book explores the escapades and trials of the couple as they navigate new territories and experiences.

Curating memories of over two decades, Travels with a Husband reflects the lighter side of travel and relationships – all written from a familiar Trinbagonian perspective which local readers will relate to easily.

Mohammed and Dixon’s distinctive individual styles were fused to combine the intellectual and artistic outlook throughout the book. Prose and verse are also complemented by Dixon’s “striking and sometimes quirky” illustrations and artwork. As much a travelogue as it is a journey of a relationship presented both visually and through the written word, Travels with a Husband is set to appeal to a wide range of readers.

Mohammed noted the importance of returning the foreign gaze in such a book: “As Caribbean people, we largely experience the world as consumers of other cultures that have shaped our tastes” she stated. “With Travels with a Husband, we have a work which shows us the world through our own eyes. This work signals a radical progression in the importance we Caribbean people place on ourselves as world citizens.” For more info: patricia.mohammed@ sta.uwi.edu